Radio Broadcast Engineer - Job Profile

About the role

A broadcast engineer operates, maintains, updates and repairs hardware and systems used across TV, radio, podcasts and other channels, ensuring that programmes are broadcast on time to the highest possible level of quality.

Broadcast engineers work in a team with others including producers, studio managers and presenters as well as other technical staff.

As well as being spread across ever-expanding methods of distribution, the work of broadcast engineers takes place in a range of locations and work situations. In addition to studio work, there may be outside broadcasts, when sound and images are relayed live back to a studio or straight to the network.

What is the Job?

The nature of the work varies by location and media of distribution, but tasks typically involve:
maintaining specialist equipment for video production, broadcast and satellite transmission, and interactive media
setting up and monitoring audiovisual links between units in different locations
installing and testing new facilities and equipment
setting up and operating editing facilities in post-production suites
analysing and rectifying technical faults on equipment and systems
minimising loss of service at times of equipment failure by rapidly identifying and implementing alternative methods of service provision
keeping abreast of constant changes in technology by investigating new systems, techniques and equipment
setting up and operating equipment and transmission links during outside broadcasts
designing and installing custom audiovisual circuits
repairing hardware, software and other broadcast technology systems
designing and manufacturing new circuits, hardware and systems
developing and using awareness of best practice in health and safety for the workplace
interpreting and implementing instructions and requests from producers, directors and other colleague
communicating effectively with members of one's own and other teams and project members
keeping up to date with the industry by building and maintaining a network of contacts

Typical career routes

Broadcast engineers attend university and study for a relevant broadcast degree (see below) some enigineers have made it into the industry through experience working with electronics in an electrical or similar engineering role.

Essential knowledge and skills

Radio engineers will have experience of working in a broadcast technology (or similar) environment. Relevant engineering qualifications or demonstrable practical experience is essential. Furthermore, a strong understanding of personal computers, servers, IT systems and networks is usually required

Training & qualifications

Broadcast engineers may need to possess some or all of the following degrees, depending on the broadcast technical environment. If one of the formal qualifications is not present, a related degree or equivalent professional experience is usually desirable.